Slovakia Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025
Claim Slovakia citizenship through your Slovakia ancestors going back up to 3 generations. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.
What is Slovakia Citizenship by Descent?
Slovakia citizenship by descent allows individuals with Slovakia heritage to claim citizenship through their parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Slovakia ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.
Key Benefits of Slovakia Citizenship
- EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 183 destinations
- No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Slovakia
- 3-Generation Eligibility: Up to 3 generations back
Slovakia Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Government Application Fee
RequiredOfficial Slovakia nationality application fee
Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications
Document Collection
RequiredBirth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries
Slovakia civil registry documents and international certificates
Document Translations
RequiredCertified translations of non-Slovak documents
All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators
Apostille Authentication
RequiredApostille stamps for international document authentication
Required for all foreign documents
Slovak Language Test
RequiredB1 level proficiency test
B1 level required for citizenship
Legal Consultation
OptionalImmigration lawyer assistance with application
Recommended for complex cases
Important Cost Considerations:
- Slovakia allows up to 3 generations for citizenship by descent
- Processing times typically 8-18 months
- Must demonstrate B1 level Slovak proficiency
- Dual citizenship generally not allowed - check exceptions
- All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
- Success rate approximately 84% for complete applications
💡 Money-Saving Tips:
- Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
- Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
- Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
- Research your family tree yourself before hiring genealogists
Slovakia Citizenship by Descent Requirements
You Qualify If:
- You have a Slovakia parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent
- Your Slovakia ancestor retained their citizenship
- You can prove the family lineage with official documents
- You can pass a cultural knowledge test (usually in Slovak)
- You have no serious criminal convictions
You Don't Qualify If:
- Your Slovakia ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
- You cannot obtain the required official documentation
- Your Slovakia ancestor is more than 3 generations back
- You have serious criminal convictions
Slovakia Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step
Verify Slovakia Ancestry
Confirm you have Slovakia parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent who retained citizenship
💡 Tip: Slovakia allows up to 3 generations for citizenship by descent
Collect Required Documents
Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Slovakia lineage
💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated
Cultural Knowledge Test
Pass basic Slovak history and culture test
💡 Tip: Usually conducted in Slovak language
Submit Citizenship Application
Apply at Slovakia consulate or in Bratislava
💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country
Application Review and Processing
Slovakia authorities review application and verify documents
💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand
Receive Citizenship Certificate
Receive official Slovakia nationality certificate
💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application
Apply for Slovakia Passport
Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport
💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I trace Slovakia ancestry for citizenship?
Slovakia allows citizenship by descent for up to 3 generations: parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.
Do I need to speak Slovak to get Slovakia citizenship by descent?
Yes, you need to pass a cultural knowledge test which is usually conducted in Slovak. This requirement shows your connection to the Slovakia community.
How much does Slovakia citizenship by descent cost?
Total costs typically range from €20-200, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.
How long does the Slovakia citizenship process take?
The process typically takes 8-18 months from application submission to citizenship approval. Processing times vary based on case complexity and current demand.
Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Slovak?
Slovakia generally does not allow dual citizenship, so you may need to renounce your original nationality. There are some exceptions, so consult with a specialist.